AQW 13354/17-22

Mr John Blair
Alliance Party
South Antrim

Tabled Date: 25/01/2021
Answered On Date: 09/02/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) what plans he has to publish a new bovine tuberculosis strategy; and (ii) what consultation is taking place with the wildlife and conservation sector in relation to the formation of new policy.

Answer:

The eradication of bTB remains one of my top priorities. I am aware of the devastating emotional and financial impact a TB breakdown can have on farming families across Northern Ireland when disease is found in their herds.

My officials are working at pace to finalise the Strategy and the accompanying business case. Once this work has been completed, a final and informed decision can be made on the elements of the Eradication Strategy which will ensure a holistic approach and address all the key factors in the control and eradication of the disease here in Northern Ireland.

Minister Poots met with wide range of groups in the past year and officials remain in regular contact with key stakeholders including those in the environmental and conservation sector. There was also formal engagement with stakeholders in relation to the strategy development when the previous consultation on the Department’s response to the TB Strategic Partnership Group (TBSPG) recommendations was undertaken, in late 2017.

The TB Eradication Partnership (TBEP) was established in 2018 to provide independent advice to DAERA on the development and implementation of the new bTB Eradication Strategy. A key appointment to the Group is Dr Michael Meharg as the member with expertise and experience of environmental and conservation issues. One of TBEP’s key roles is to engage with stakeholders and represent their views to the Department on the development of the TB Programme.

Officials are finalising advice but changes relating to wildlife intervention if agreed, would require the introduction of new subordinate legislation and would be subject to further consultation. Stakeholder participation will be a central element of the process.